Intel Core i7-10700 vs Intel Core i3-12100

The Intel Core i7-10700, based on the Comet Lake S architecture, was introduced in the second quarter of 2020 and was aimed at users with high multitasking performance demands.

It is manufactured using the 14 nm process and features 8 cores and 16 threads, as well as 16 MB of Level 3 cache. In multi-core benchmarks, the Intel Core i7-10700 delivers significantly higher performance. Its integrated graphics unit is the Intel UHD Graphics 630. The processor supports PCIe 3.0 and offers a maximum memory bandwidth of 47 GB/s.

Its TDP tends to be higher, requiring more robust cooling. For applications that benefit from many cores, it is a strong option. The Intel Core i3-12100, a representative of the Alder Lake S architecture, was released in the first quarter of 2022 and offers improved single-core performance for entry-level to mid-range systems.

It is manufactured using the more efficient 10 nm process, has 4 cores and 8 threads, 5 MB of Level 2 cache, and 12 MB of Level 3 cache. In single-core benchmarks, the Intel Core i3-12100 significantly outperforms the Intel Core i7-10700, making it a better choice, especially for gaming.

It supports the modern PCIe 5.0 standard and achieves a memory bandwidth of 77 GB/s. The integrated graphics unit is the Intel UHD Graphics 730. Its lower TDP results in lower power consumption and simpler cooling requirements.